Eosínófílar

Eosínófílar, also known as eosinophils, are a type of white blood cell, or leukocyte, that play a crucial role in the immune system. They are characterized by their distinctive granules, which stain brightly red with eosin, an acidic dye, hence their name. These granules contain a variety of enzymes and proteins that are released during inflammatory and allergic responses.

Eosinophils are produced in the bone marrow and circulate in the bloodstream before migrating to various tissues, particularly those that are exposed to the external environment, such as the skin, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract. Their primary functions include defending the body against parasitic infections and modulating allergic inflammatory responses.

When an eosinophil encounters a parasite, it releases its granular contents, which can damage and kill the parasite. In allergic reactions, eosinophils are recruited to sites of inflammation by chemical signals and contribute to the symptoms of allergies, such as asthma, hay fever, and eczema, by releasing mediators that cause tissue damage and inflammation.

The number of eosinophils in the blood can increase in certain conditions, a phenomenon known as eosinophilia. Eosinophilia can be caused by parasitic infections, allergic diseases, certain medications, and some types of cancer. Conversely, a low count of eosinophils is generally not clinically significant under normal circumstances. The study and understanding of eosinophils are vital for diagnosing and managing a range of health conditions.